CHKDSK (Check Disk) is a built-in utility in Windows operating systems that scans and repairs issues with the file system and hard drive. It is a crucial tool for maintaining system integrity and resolving disk-related problems. However, occasionally, users may encounter a situation where CHKDSK stuck or freezes during the scanning process.
In this article, we will discuss the potential causes behind CHKDSK getting stuck on Windows 11 and provide effective solutions to resolve this issue.
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Is it normal for CHKDSK stuck on Windows 11?
CHKDSK (Check Disk) is a utility program in Windows that is designed to check for and repair errors on the file system of a disk drive. It is normal for CHKDSK to take some time to complete, especially if you have a large disk or if there are numerous errors to be fixed. The common factors that can contribute to this occurrence are:
- Large Disk Size and File Volume.
- Complex File System Structures.
How do I Fix CHKDSK Stuck on Windows 11
CHDSK Stuck on Windows 11 can be fixed in various ways. We suggest you follow these quick steps before going through detailed methods.
- Give It Some Time and see if it’s resolved.
- Restart Your Computer.
- Disconnect External Devices.
After that, Follow the solutions mentioned below to solve the CHDSK Stuck issue that you are encountering:
1. Run CHKDSK in Safe Mode:
Running CHKDSK in Safe Mode can help troubleshoot issues that may be causing it to get stuck during the scan. To access Safe Mode, follow these steps:
- Restart your computer and press the F8 key repeatedly during startup.
- From the Advanced Boot Options menu, select Safe Mode and press Enter.
- Once in Safe Mode, open the Command Prompt and run CHKDSK. This should allow CHKDSK to complete its scan without any interference from third-party software or drivers.
2. Use Command Prompt to Force CHKDSK:
If the above steps didn’t resolve the issue, you can try forcing CHKDSK to run using Command Prompt. Follow these steps:
- Press Win + X and select Terminal (Admin) from the menu.
- In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and hit Enter:
chkdsk C: /f /r
Note: Replace C: with the drive letter of the partition you want to scan.
The “/f” parameter fixes errors automatically, and the “/r” parameter locates bad sectors and recovers readable information. This forces CHKDSK to run and may help overcome any obstacles causing it to hang.
3. Disable Automatic Restart:
Sometimes, CHKDSK can get stuck due to an automatic restart triggered by Windows. To prevent this, you can disable the automatic restart feature. Here’s how:
- Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
- Then go to System > About.
- In the System window, click on Advanced system settings on the right-hand side.
- In the System Properties dialog box, go to the Advanced tab and click on the Settings button under the Startup and Recovery section.
- Uncheck the box that says Automatically restart under the System failure section and click OK to save the changes.
By disabling the automatic restart, you can allow CHKDSK to run without interruption.
4. Perform a System Restore:
If all else fails, you can try performing a system restore to revert your computer back to a previous state where CHKDSK was functioning correctly. System restore allows you to undo recent system changes without affecting your personal files. To perform a system restore:
- Open the Settings app like before.
- Then go to System > About.
- In the System window, click on System Protection in the middle.
- In the System Properties dialog box, click on the System Restore button.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a restore point and initiate the restoration process.
It’s important to note that performing a system restore will revert your system settings and installed programs to a previous state. Make sure to back up any important files before proceeding.
Extra Steps:
If the above methods don’t work try these additional steps:
- Use the System File Checker (SFC) Tool.
- Check Hard Drive Health.
- Update Device Drivers.
By utilizing these additional methods, you can further troubleshoot and resolve the issue of CHKDSK stuck on Windows 11. Remember to approach each step with caution and ensure you have backups of important data before attempting any system changes. If the problem persists, it may be advisable to seek assistance from a professional technician or Microsoft support for further guidance.
